Quick Cook Black Tapioca Pearls, 250g

These large black tapioca pearls, also known as boba pearls, are famously used in a Taiwanese drink called ‘boba’ or bubble tea. These large coloured tapioca pearls are gelatinous spheres made from a natural starch extracted from a cassava shrub. 

The quick-cook tapioca pearls are already part-cooked, so are ready in just 5 minutes. The black tapioca pearls are coloured with caramel. Multi-coloured quick-cook tapioca pearls are also available.

Boba milk tea

Boba tea is a milk-based drink with a handful of the pearl balls at the bottom of the glass – sucked up through an extra-wide straw. The chewy tapioca pearls add an enjoyable texture to bubble tea. Tapioca pearls are also used in South Asian desserts, boiled up with coconut milk until they take on a jelly baby-like consistency. Or simply mixed with sugar and honey.

How to cook tapioca pearls

To cook the quick-cook black tapioca pearls bring a pan of water to the boil – use 10 cups of water for every 1 cup of tapioca pearls.

Add the pearls slowly and stir gently. Wait until they rise to the surface.

Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5-8 minutes until soft, stirring regularly. Transfer to a bowl of cold water for 20 seconds.

Scoop out the tapioca pearls and mix together with sugar or honey for a quick dessert. These tapioca balls can be mixed with sugar or honey for a quick dessert.

Learn more in our guide to bubble tea.

Product formulations and details may change. For the latest ingredients and allergen information always check product packaging prior to consumption. Ingredients: tapioca starch 42%, water, corn starch, colour (sulphite ammonia caramel), thickener E412, preservative E262(ii), flavouring.

Allergy Advice: for allergens see ingredients listed in bold.

Storage: keep away from direct sunlight and store in a cool, dry place. Consume soon after opening.

Depending on availability, brands and packaging may differ from those in the photographs.